Kayak Paddles - Everything You Need to Know About How to Choose a Paddle

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Kayak Paddles are your connection to the water, and so choosing the right paddle for your paddling style, body type, and your budget, is an important decision. In this episode, I'll tell you everything you need to know about kayak paddles.
How to Paddle a Kayak: • How to Choose a Kayak ...
Special Thanks to:
NRS: www.nrs.com/
Aqua Bound: www.aquabound.com/
Take a free online safety course for canoeing, kayaking, and stand up paddling (SUP), brought to you by the American Canoe Association and the U.S. Coast Guard: americancanoe.org/education/r...
Other paddling gear I use and recommend:
NOTE: These are affiliate links where I'll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you, but it's a great way to show your support. Thanks!
PORTABLE KAYAKS I recommend
Sea Eagle 380x: bit.ly/37jRbxP
Sea Eagle 385ft:
Tucktec: bit.ly/3mQnmcn
Pakayak: pakayak.com/?uap_ref=ken
Decathlon Itiwit:
Oru Kayak Inlet: bit.ly/3vpjxhS
AquaGlide Chelan 120: bit.ly/3IRNde0
Advanced Elements Advanced Frame: bit.ly/3hJNpAl
Star Rival Inflatable Kayak: bit.ly/3lipNno
Isle Switch Hybrid SUP/Kayak: islesurfsup.sjv.io/5bJMJn
PADDLES
Aqua Bound Manta Ray Carbon Paddle:
Aqua Bound Tango Fibreglass Paddle: bit.ly/3iaGleJ
Aqua Bound Whiskey Carbon Bent Shaft Paddle: bit.ly/3z1kiOH
FOOTWEAR
NRS Kicker Remix Shoe: bit.ly/36F1B6Y
NRS Boundary Boot: bit.ly/2TaCMgl
PADDLING SHIRTS / TOPS
NRS Guide Long Sleeve Shirt: bit.ly/3yVID8j
NRS Guide Short Sleeve Shirt: bit.ly/3dkDYaD
NRS H2Core Silkweight Shirt: bit.ly/3xF43pX
NRS H2Core Silkweight Long Sleeve Shirt: bit.ly/3yZGbO2
NRS Hydroskin Short Sleeve Shirt: bit.ly/3wCvoI3
NRS Riptide Splash Jacket: bit.ly/3BbAZZJ
NRS Flux Dry Top: bit.ly/2U3Pvlw
PFD’S
NRS Odyssey PFD: bit.ly/3ibIk2n
NRS Zen PFD: bit.ly/2VCfrF3
NRS Chinook PFD: bit.ly/2TaEAG9
OTHER PADDLING GEAR
Zoleo Communicator: bit.ly/3zw7gw1
NRS Drylander Sprayskirt: bit.ly/36z5BG6
WRSI Current Helmet: bit.ly/2Te6KA6
PADDLING SHORTS/BOTTOMS
NRS Benny Board Short: bit.ly/2VIbK0L
NRS Hydroskin Shorts: bit.ly/3hCXPl2
SUNGLASSES
WileyX: bit.ly/3NtJQKR
FOLLOW KEN
Facebook: / gopaddle
Instagram: / paddle365
Twitter: / gopaddle
Blog: in4adventure.com
MADE POSSIBLE with the Support of:
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Bell Fund: bellfund.ca/
PRODUCED BY
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Contact: info@heliconia.ca
#kayak #paddler

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Опубликовано:

19 июн 2024

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Комментарии : 132

@bobzilla76 Год назад

Came for the paddle chat stayed for the metric burn :D

@johnbryant1190 Год назад

You have done a terrific job of delivering a wealth of information in a concise and very understandable manner. Thank you so much!

@youtubecomment9821 Год назад

Hey Ken, Could you make a video about how to determine which length paddle to use? I know there are a lot of resources and personal preferences out there, but I get confused when attempting to include the factor of kayak width (especially for occasional use of inflatable kayaks)

@_Dibbler_ Год назад

I was about to ask for that too 👍 Would be very much appreciated. Great and informative video anyway, so thanks Ken.

@martin.feuchtwanger Год назад

I agree. Paddle length factors: o paddler height and reach -- the taller you are and the greater your reach, the longer the paddle o kayak width and height (not length) -- the wider the boat and the higher the deck, the longer the paddle o seat height below/above water -- the higher the seat lifts your body above the waterline, the longer the paddle o paddling style (angle) -- the lower your paddling angle, the longer the paddle

@LJ-jq8og Год назад

Following too. I'd hate to spend a small fortune only to learn I had the wrong size 😊.

@rosevidal8733 Год назад

Did he make a video, i wanted that info too.

@chrisbaldridge142 Год назад

I finally broke down and bought my expensive paddle, I got a 270cm Bending Branches Navigator carbon fiber shaft and wood blades. I've had to reteach myself how to paddle with it because the blades are so buoyant they pop up out of the water on their own. This is the best paddle I've ever used and I bought a travel paddle bag that can hold up to 3 paddles. I wasn't ready to pull the trigger on buying it until I got my hands on one. Another great informative video, thanks for making these.

@rickquist3992 Год назад

A quality paddle will make your time on the water more enjoyable. New paddlers are often shocked by the price of "real" paddles. *Buy once / Cry once* (you'll thank yourself)

@keithmoriyama5421 Год назад

Ya, because they cost more than their entire boat.

@peterkitchener8787 Год назад

I think its easy to get carried away with paddles. My fav is still ainsworth sea (AFT) one piece carbon that sells for under £140. Love the feel of it in the water.

@roywarriner8441 Год назад

Twice really, your backup should be the equivalent of your primary. Two the same or a Greenland and a euro blade at similiar price points.

@keithmoriyama5421 Год назад

@@roywarriner8441 Why? How often do you use a backup out of necessity? I have the same model 230cm low angle and a 220cm high angle. I carry them for emergency but, only use them for a change of pace. If not for that, a $150. backup is plenty sufficient.

@roywarriner8441 Год назад

@@keithmoriyama5421Best practice and recommended by most schools. I'm going with one of each, my go to has been a 215 bent shaft Shuna (20.5" kayak). I'm getting a Gearlab Akiak 220 cm this week. I'm not sure which will be back up. The previous back up was comparable construction to the Shuna but cheaper with a straight shaft. The Akiak and the Shuna are at about the same price point.

@dannyroberts5056 Год назад

Great video as always Ken. One paddle you didn't mention was a wooden paddle. My personal favorite paddle is my Bending Branches low angle paddle. It's all wood except for the ferals which are carbon fiber. I've owned this paddle for 21 yrs now. My backup paddle is a Perception Sea Passage that I bought about 29 yrs ago. This was my first paddle I owned. I paddle a cedar strip kayak I built from a book 21 yrs ago. The kayak is a Guillemot Single designed by Nick Shade of Guillemot Kayaks. Wood feels really good in the hand as a paddle material with really good performance. Of course one trade off is more maintenance but it's a small trade off in my opinion. A good carbon paddle will weigh less of course but I have never owned one due to the price point. As you mentioned the other weak point would be the feral but it's a click type. I had to re glue mine after 20 years of use but it's been a great paddle inspite of these two very small weaknesses. I have always paddled with my blades feathered . I mostly paddle long distances and allot of times in winds up to 22 miles an hour. If I orient my blades straight it feel strange to me. Like you said each person will find what works or feels best for them.

@stevelardinois5812 Год назад

Great comprehensive video, Ken. Very informative. Thanks for all the great videos you post!

@NarleyAdventures Месяц назад

👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 Great explanations!!

@flatheadfletch Месяц назад

I have to say, Iv been using the euro blade since the early 70’s. My last paddle was a Werner bent handle touring paddle, I truly enjoyed it. BUT ! I bought a carbon Greenland paddle from Gearlab and have never looked back. I sold my Werner’s and the Greenland is all I use. I highly highly recommend it !!!!

@PaddleTV Месяц назад

Thanks for sharing!

@ronn6471 Год назад

Excellent overview of available options and considerations!

@silverpaddles2905 Год назад

Great information and delivered in a relatable way. Great job!

@fredkumm1305 Год назад

Wonderful! Much needed information.

@mjravello1 Год назад

Great video and good information. Much appreciated

@Timburgess1812 Год назад

Thanks Ken, really helpful video. I didn’t realise you could get 4 piece paddles until I saw one included with an inflatable kayak I looked at. They seem like a really good idea, I’ll definitely look at them when I have the money to take the plunge!

@tomforstik4899 Год назад

This guy is an excellent reviewer. Thank you for the education

@PaddleTV Год назад

Thanks Tom!

@RonK Год назад

excellent info, thanks a lot for sharing

@usngunr Год назад

I completed the ACA course yesterday. Informative indeed.

@fayeaune9305 Год назад

Great help in choosing my paddle. Appreciate the info.

@michaelnelson3469 Год назад

Really excellent, thanks so much!

@Thatguy-dk8zm Год назад

Been waiting for this video thanks Ken.

@per-ivarriise6048 Год назад

Thanks for the good tips for the use of the paddle

@rosevidal8733 Год назад

You are the best at teaching Kayaking stuff! Thanks!!

@gregparks2782 Год назад

Very helpful and entertaining!

@vrex899 Год назад

Youre missing the carbon fiber sport paddle, the one thats designed like a wing, and that is used on k1s and wildwater kayaks

@Celisar1 10 месяцев назад

I love your humor!

@grahamskilling2147 Год назад

Excellent info…thanks

@Fishaholicboy Год назад

Buying a good quality paddle really makes a difference on the paddling experience

@LJ-jq8og Год назад

EXCELLENT practical video ... thx

@PaddleTV Год назад

Thanks!

@learntechwithruth2147 Год назад

After my humerus neck break I bought a snazzy Werner paddle. It’s so nice and light and slices beautifully. Only thing is it gets me wet. But, I managed to go all around our Fort Loudoun Island, and physical therapy people couldn’t believe it.

@AaronSmith-sx4ez Год назад

Something you could have talked about that I think is underrated for kayak paddles...is the shaft diameter. Most shafts IMO are too big. Werner is a company that makes narrow shafted paddles that I find significantly more comfortable.

@andrewmackie1324 Год назад

a very helpful vid, thank you Ken. Some thoughts on paddle leashes would be a nice addition

@scot_smith Год назад

Excellent, comprehensive overview! I feel well paddled! And U got skillz 16:25

@samarasbasilios5207 Год назад

I learned that i have bought the right blade totaly by luck!!!!Thanks!!!

@granitfog Год назад

As always, your videos are very well organized and comprehesive. But I want to add to the question of "best paddle" vis a vis "paddling style" I think that if rocky shores or river bottoms are frequent paddle encounters, the reinforced nylon might be better than the fiberglass or carbon, due potential chipping against rocks with the stiffer fiberglass and carbon. But if it is longer or open water then fiberglass and carbon would be better due to their lighter weight. For older folks or those with joint issues, the bent paddle shaft would be more advantageous as the wrist angle is more neutral at the start of the stroke, which is when more force is applied. 🙂

@Ramcharger2Travel Год назад

Thanks so much for making these videos, me and the family are new to kayaking. I'm not afraid to spend money on quality gear but I want to purchase the right gear to start with.

@PaddleTV Год назад

Happy to help! Hope you guys love it!

@nature.vibes.offical Год назад

Nice content. ❤️

@Joe-xq1nt Год назад

Excellent video, solved part of my issue. I definitely want an adjustable length paddle for my needs. Now the question will be what quality manufactures offer them?

@brianne9 Год назад

This is great. I am a brand new paddler and find these videos so helpful. For paddling on a paddleboard with a raised seat (or a sit on top kayak with a higher seated position), I should be looking for a high angle / wider blade than a sit in kayaker? Clarification would be very appreciated. Thanks.

@Gerooge Год назад

Great presentation,! Thank you for your experience and tips. A few thoughts that occurred to me as I watched are that I would like to hear your insights on wooden kayak paddles as well. I know they are out there. How do they compare with the others, pros & cons. Also dihedral vs flat faces (such as are often found on wooden paddles). As to shafts, I know there are oval and round grip points, and standard and narrow diameters. What has been your experience dealing with those factors amid the other points you covered?

@Imightberiding Год назад

Another great video full of excellent information for us mortals. Your experience & resulting knowledge is a blessing & valuable resource for us starting out in kayaking. I have owed a couple canoes over the years & am at best an intermediate with canoes but I'm considering several options for inflatable kayaks. Off the topic: I watched your reviews of the Sea Eagle 380 Explorer, Sea Eagle 393 Razor Lite & the Aqua Glide Chelan 120. Could you please do a review of the Sea Eagle Fast Track 385? I think it might be what I'm looking for as it seems to meet that happy medium point between all the above mentioned. I'm a subscriber & avid follower of your videos. I will watch for a video in the future that hopefully features the Sea Eagle Fast Track 385 & your thoughts on it & what you think it's best suited for. Thank you from Vancouver Island.

@maxboo1 Год назад

I use an Aqua Bound Sting Ray Carbon for rivers and rocky areas and a Fiberglass Tango for open water runs. The sound the fiberglass blade makes if it hits a rock is unsettling.

@pootinplays 3 месяца назад

As an American I 100% agree the metric system is a far better measurement system

@David460 Год назад

You got some guts man! Starting the metric vs imperial war :))))))))))

@mdsf01 Год назад

Excellent video! What are your thoughts on a paddle leash?

@6yjjk Год назад

That Intex K1 paddle comes in 5 pieces, so it's extra awesome, right? :P I have a 4-piece paddle because I have an Itiwit X500 inflatable and a 2-piece won't go in the bag. Wouldn't mind if I didn't plan to fly with the thing.

@michaelsauer9129 Год назад

I just bought a very nice (so far after 1 trip) entry+ level paddle and one thing I found on two of the ones I was considering was indexing. I've watched several paddle videos and have not seen this mentioned. Is this a new thing or just not found on many/better paddles? One paddle just had a and extra ridge added to just the right hand side but when holding it like that you didn't need to think about where the blade was relative to your grip. As I use my hands more or less interchangable without really thinking, I disliked it was only on the right side of the shaft. The other one had the shaft shaped into a slight oval for about a foot in the prime holding locations on boths sides of the shaft. This provided both indexing and tactile feedback for holding the shaft in the correct locations. I also think, at least for me, the oval shape fits my hand more naturally than a round one. Have you seen or heard about this option?

@GH0ST369 2 месяца назад

You forgot Kevlar... And you should compare the different types of Carbon fiber. Two or four piece paddles you can add silicone grip, as well Question: Is a bent shaft better for touring or white water paddling? I hope manufacturers start to use titanium push button release, it does well with salt water.

@lesthompson7923 Год назад

Thanks for the thorough walk through on what seems in stores like a complicated market! One question I have is; are there different circumferences available for paddle shafts? I'm new to kayaking, but a lifelong rower and canoer, yet, the kayak paddle irritates the thumb webbing on my dominant right hand. Perhaps my stroke technique is flawed (entirely possible), but with a larger female hand, I can't seem to find a comfortable sweet spot. For reference, my paddle cost around $125 from the popular REI outdoor store, is two piece snap clip, and fiberglass reinforced full profile blade. Thanks for your tips!

@roywarriner8441 Год назад

If you paddle regularly, the tender spots will callous, I get some small blisters in the spring but callous up in a few sessions. Don't let anyone tell you it is because of too tight a grip. It is the chafing from the shaft moving freely in your hands, as it should. A bent shaft may be more comfortable in your hands but won't eliminate the chafing.

@lesthompson7923 Год назад

@@roywarriner8441 thank you for your experiential reply. I guess I’ll have to “toughen up Buttercup”, and get on with it!

@Tokahfang Год назад

@@lesthompson7923 You could also wear gloves!

@carakao-young1485 Год назад

Thank you I have severe arthritis all over, including shoulders and wrists. I wanna try the bent paddles

@carakao-young1485 Год назад

Oh and having offset blades really helps me conserve my energy by the up paddle slicing thru the air. There's prolly more disabled and/or elderly folks who want to kayak, so these tips will be useful for us

@bryanwiley7345 Год назад

Great and informative video but that shirt!!! What brand is it? Also I have the new Oru lake. Should I add a removable skeg to it?

@alexlewis753 Год назад

Most shirts he wears are NRS, I think this one too

@recelehberger1603 Год назад

Please do one about canoe paddles

@viktorjohansson5222 Год назад

Could you talk about racing kayaks at some point?

@steveeckart6333 Год назад

Was hoping for Paddle Length calculation based on my height, kayak width, high / low padding style. Have you covered that in another video yet?

@peterkitchener8787 Год назад

I think Ken did, but its a minefield. As a rule, the wider the kayak, the longer the paddle. For a fishing kayak 230cm min, 240/250cm better. Most of them are around 85/90cm wide and you need a longer paddle due to this. On a surf kayak there only 68cm wide and 200cm paddle will do. For a beginner a longer paddle is easier to use too. My only advice is not to over think this, when your in the shop sit in a few kayaks with difference paddles and see how they feel. Take a few stokes. The staff wont mind and a few will let you try out paddles & kayaks on water before you buy.

@keithmoriyama5421 Год назад

That has been covered umpteen times on RU-vid. But, I don't think it really matters. Comfort, posture and ease of efficiency matter more. My 5'7" wife tried my 230cm paddle and fell in love with it. At first I thought it was too long, but watching her stroke (she's not strong but, has excellent technique) it seems like a perfect fit. And that's with a 22" beam kayak. Unfortunately, my carbon foam core paddle $$ is hers' now.

@K9River Год назад

I use fiberglass because the shaft doesn't get cold. Aluminum shafts are soooo cold in mountain river water.

@ChainringTattoo Год назад

Where would you put wing blade paddles in this discussion? A lot of people who do endurance events like the MR 340 highly recommend them.

@PaddleTV Год назад

That's a great question... and something that I wish I had at least mentioned in this video (in hindsight). Wing paddles really are specialty paddles, where you're willing to give up versatility and stability (they're not good for bracing) for power. I typically wouldn't recommend a wing paddle to anyone except someone who raced, or loved speed paddling, simply because they're so specialized for forward paddling.

@Hardcore2432 Год назад

Trying to decide on a back up paddle for kayaking and canoeing. Thinking high angle longest shaft as 6’1” and have low angle 220cm aquabound. Or would you suggest other?

@PaddleTV Год назад

I use a 240 or 250 cm paddle when I use a kayak paddle in a canoe. This paddle works great for wider kayaks too. As a backup, a long shaft definitely gives you the most versatility and so I think it's a good idea to go longer vs shorter, if you want to use it for multiple crafts.

@seehongkongsea Год назад

Good informative video. Btw u remind me of deadpool or I mean Ryan.

@PaddleTV Год назад

Ha! Hopefully more like Ryan than Deadpool! :)

@jaysway2346 Год назад

16:25 Skills pay the bills, that's why he's a paddling champ.

@crazy8adventures553 Год назад

Why would you need a bent shaft if you have a paddle that you can adjust the feather? BTW, I love my slice with an adjustable length. All higher end paddles should have adjustable length...

@pantsmcgregor6593 Год назад

I have a tarpon 105 sit on top. Is a better paddle really going to make a difference in performance?

@PaddleTV Год назад

Yes... a better paddle does typically offer a little more power. But, you're not going to gain that much more performance... you're just going to enjoy the paddling experience more with a lighter and better balanced paddle.

@waynefatguyinakayak7408 Год назад

The metric system? What's that, some kind of measurement for figuring out the ratio of maple syrup per moose? 😆 Paddles are measured in CM, but all the kayaks I've seen here in the states are measured in feet and inches 😁

@roywarriner8441 Год назад

Yeah, we still use the archaic system when talking length and beam here in the Great White North as well. I use a 215cm bent shaft to paddle my 16'7" kayak that has a 20.5" beam.

@jhettopfer8879 Год назад

You posted this video about 2 hrs after I bought my first paddle.

@keithmoriyama5421 Год назад

There's a great YT video by an Inuit kayaker who explains exactly how to use a Greenland. The Greenland paddle is meant to be used under water. If you stand on one leg your balance is severely compromised compared to standing on two legs. But, if you lightly brace one finger on a wall you have great stability.

@poodleprofessor 8 месяцев назад

I was gifted a kayak and paddle and get soaking wet when kayaking from the dripping off the paddle. I looked at charts and for my height and width of kayak, I should have a 230 cm paddle and the one I have is 7 ft. or 213cm as you Northerners say. 🙃Not sure if this is the culprit of getting wet or not. Thoughts?

@PaddleTV 8 месяцев назад

The ideal length of your paddle depends on what type of kayak you're using. 213 cm is pretty short, unless you're using a higher performance touring kayak. 230cm is a more 'all-round' length for sure, and it will help reduce drips if you use drip rings on your paddle. You'll also want to have the drip rings in the right spot - about a hands width from the start of the paddle blade. When using sit-on-top kayaks, having some dripping on you is pretty natural, but a longer paddle with drip rings is a good way to reduce it.

@poodleprofessor 8 месяцев назад

@@PaddleTV thank you for responding. The kayak is 29” wide, sit-in and I do have the drip rings at the right spot. Thanks again! I really appreciate it.

@NomadGio 4 месяца назад

👏👏👏

@przemysawsikora7243 Год назад

What about the length of paddles?

@codybroken Год назад

I could see myself with a $500 paddle in a $200 used kayak.

@paul-gt4xp Год назад

Your link to the online safety course does not work

@k2dave1969 Год назад

What about wood paddles?

@danareed1656 Год назад

i find having the paddle feathered is easier on my wrists

@mikemason4758 Год назад

Snarky much? 🇺🇸 inches and feet😂🙃🙃. Good info.

@paulgallant8660 Год назад

What about wooden paddles?

@Rockerrobin Год назад

Purchased a powerhouse for a playboat I got in an auction but it hurt my back to much so sold the boat right away. I have been trying to sell it for a month now mint condition and none of the kayak outsiders even have any in stock to compete against. In Alberta Canada our economy has crashed used prices are half of what they should be and still nothing is selling.

@dawncrossland3028 Год назад

LONG way to TEXAS!

@Meatpopsicle2050 Год назад

American here still waiting for the switch over to metric. Standard is the stupidest thing ever. “Hmmmm.. what socket do I need?!? What fraction do I need that’s a bit larger than what I have here…? Ope.. not it.. maybe it metric then… nope.. found the standard size… “ maddening.

@markjones8846 Год назад

Featuring a paddle blade isn't related to wind, its related to natural angle of your wrists.

@Mr.Bryan1234 4 месяца назад

Why does everyone not mention winged paddles.

@BelleBemis Месяц назад

Which part of the documentary resonated with you the most and why? 🌍✨

@Cheyanne882 Год назад

Many thanks,+++

@granitfog Год назад

Metric system!!!

@TheRattleShark Месяц назад

Funny thing is, picking something that is just plain available and in your price range

@BoomVang Год назад

Fine, but what about shaft diameter? I used to have nice hand filling wood or aluminum shafts, now replaced by skinny carbon ones. This makes them light, but must we wear gloves or wrap on handholds? What about the satisfying "twang" that carbon shafts give at end of stroke - is this a useful release of stored energy or just an oddity? P.S. 4 pieces are useful aside from air or even vehicle travel since they fit in an inflatables backpack. Mmm, I hope to find one of those wiggly shafts on a closeout sale.

@peterkitchener8787 Год назад

I only use one piece or a 3 piece paddles set at a 45/30 degrees. (Funny you didn't cover the 3 piece paddle....did you forget? One shaft & two interchangeable blades.) I've snap a few 2 piece paddles over the years. Last time was using a paddle float and getting back into the kayak. This is the main reason I don't 2 piece paddles. The other is once the paddles set up, its never changed. In the UK we're lucky enough to have a few manufacturers and they will make you a paddle to order for a little more money. So if you do find a paddle you like but the shafts the wrong size or thickness, maybe the blades aren't right, always give them a call. Will you post a link for West Mercia search and rescues free water safety online course? Its a basic course aim at anyone in contact with water.

@randbaldwin Год назад

Skinny / fat, euro / greenland.... The two examples you shared are so extreme!!! Why not a hybrid in between?

@sallybarnette2234 19 дней назад

Haha. Metric is the only way to go 😂

@kattotonic3143 Год назад

I picked up the Aqua Bound Whiskey straight shaft. It was really nice to paddle with. I am considering a Greenland paddle. Just an inexpensive one, like you suggested, to see if I like it.